Riding the Invisible Wave

Each year at this time something big happens.  Kids go back to school, a new season of T.V. starts, churches seem to get an influx of people, stores start ramping up there inventories and pushing the next big event.

Add to that this year, I went back to school, started a new job, still church shopping, and trying to move into a new home.  In this craziness it is hard to stop and remember why I do all I do.  I do it for my two daughters, and my loving wife, but more importantly I do for the Lord.  I do it because the Lord made me.

Psalm 139:14 says: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

God doesn't make mistakes, no matter what we may think about ourselves.  God made us who we are.  So in this time of craziness, praise God for you are fearfully and wonderfully made.  Keep your focus on God, and what He wants, and then you will be able to surf this wave of busyness.

Get out of debt

I was watching video clips today on Hulu.com and this one popped out at me. It's so dead on, and one that I think we need to learn over and over again, especially as Christians.

The bible says you can't serve two masters. Debt is the most common master in America today. My wife and are I going through a decluttering book called, "It's all too much," by Peter Walsh. The main thing this book has shown me is how much crap I have. How much stuff I just needed to buy, but is sitting around my house collecting dust. We got rid of over 30 glasses and mugs. Which doesn't seem ike a lot if youhave a small restaurant, but we are a family of 4 not that restaurant.

Rise to the Top

I am a fan of reality T.V. not becuase of its uplifting of humanity, or the great values it teaches, but mainly because I get to learn new games for youth group. The conniving and manipulation that happens on these shows is astounding, but every so often someone will rise up and play the game in a new way. A way that is counter-culture to the way the game is supposed to be played.

The bible says in 1 Peter 12:11-12
Friends, this world is not your home, so don't make yourselves cozy in it. Don't indulge your ego at the expense of your soul. Live an exemplary life among the natives so that your actions will refute their prejudices. Then they'll be won over to God's side and be there to join in the celebration when he arrives."

In the Game of Big Brother 9 one such character rose to the final four. Her name is Sharon Obermueller. Despite there being an alliance on the show known as the bible buddies, aka Team Christ, Sharon stood head and shoulders above the rest as a true Christian woman. Where Team Christ sat around using the bible to bash the "evil doers" of the show, Sharon calmly and patiently sat on the block five times in a row.

Sharon made it to the final four but because she wouldn't make a deal that would make her betray her secret alliance, she was evicted. She left the show with such grace a dignity that people have to see her as the true Christian of the show. This goes to show that you don't have to beat the bible over someones head to prove your a Christian, It is truly demonstrated in your actions.

Another reality show had a loser this year that completely won my heart by the end of the show. In Celebrity Apprentice Trace Adkins rose to the top. In fact he came in second. This man worked hard, tried hard, and never gave up. His actions spoke louder than his words. He lost because he didn't have the multi-millionaire connections, but still raised a ton of money for his cause. His cause is The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (click to donate), which he chose because his daughter deals with severe food allergies.

It is said that "Actions speak louder than words." I hope and pray you know the words to say when people ask you what you believe in, but more than that I pray that you are living those words out in your life. No matter what the moral downfall of a show or culture; someone of true character, with a true Christian Identity, can rise up by his/her actions.

Your dead! Now what?

TORCHWOOD is spin off of Doctor Who, a classic sci-fi show out of the U.K. Torchwood is jsut finished its second season in both the U.K. and the U.S. However, you can still catch the shows on Comcast's On Demand service in the BBC America section. I just finished watching episodes 6, 7, and 8 from the second season.

*spoilers ahead, but not too spoilerish*









These episodes deal with the death of a main character named Dr. Owen Harper. But this being a Sci-fi show Owen's death doesn't last long, well that is to say the unconscious part. Owen has to deal with being a living dead person, but not in the eat your brain zombie way.

The key question that is asked in this arc of the series is, what is beyond life? The writers of this series posed the answer to this question as, "nothing." More specifically it was darkness, with a creature resembling the Grim Reaper lurking about.

The truth is no one is sure about what awaits us after death. We learn from the bible that we will live eternally with God in Heaven or we will not be with God and be in Hell.

But what is Hell? It is safe to say that it is the eternal seperation from the loving God, not by His doing but by our choice to live separated from him in life. In Matthew 5:45 we learn that God sends the rain and the sun on both the righteous and unrighteous. So we can deduct that "No God = No Rain or Sun." So an eternal death is a death that is eternally separated from ALL of God.

So the show may not be off by too much. Death for those that chose to live separated from God may be a void of darkness with a creature waiting to torment you for all of eternity.

Updates to Blog

Okay, so the last few weeks have blown by. I am trying to figure out a time for me to blog the bible reading again. Ever since my wife went back to work at the beginning of this month I have found myself with less and less time to keep up with this blog.

Here is the good news, I am going to work at getting the blog back up to speed plus there are a couple of new additions to the blog. Besides bible reading I am going to get back to what this blog was created for and that is to look at Pop Culture through God's eyes. I am also working on getting the podcast off the ground.

Tomorrow there will be new content in the form of a movie review. I will be reviewing Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed.

See ya then.

Don

Help, I need somebody!

Scripture: Psalm 124 Key Verse: 124:7-8
We escaped like a bird caught in a hunter's trap. The trap was broken, and we escaped. Our help is in the name of the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth.

Objective:
Psalm 124 is a praise song written about the power and protection of God.

Application:
This passage made me think of the song Help! by the Beatles. With the mind set that God is the one being sung to the passage and the lyrics have a lot in common.



Help, I need somebody,
Help, not just anybody,
Help, you know I need someone, help.

When I was younger, so much younger than today,
I never needed anybody's help in any way.
But now these days are gone, I'm not so self assured,
Now I find I've changed my mind and opened up the doors.

Help me if you can, I'm feeling down
And I do appreciate you being round.
Help me, get my feet back on the ground,
Won't you please, please help me.

And now my life has changed in oh so many ways,
My independence seems to vanish in the haze.
But every now and then I feel so insecure,
I know that I just need you like I've never done before.

Help me if you can, I'm feeling down
And I do appreciate you being round.
Help me, get my feet back on the ground,
Won't you please, please help me.

When I was younger, so much younger than today,
I never needed anybody's help in any way.
But now these days are gone, I'm not so self assured,
Now I find I've changed my mind and opened up the doors.

Help me if you can, I'm feeling down
And I do appreciate you being round.
Help me, get my feet back on the ground,
Won't you please, please help me, help me, help me, oh.

Prayer:
God Those times that we feel trapped let us find the way out. Help us remember the way out is through you. Help us cry out for help to the one that will save us, You!

The Good and The Bad

Scripture: Psalm 121 Key Verse: 121:1-2
I look up toward the mountains. Where can I find help? My help comes from the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth.

Objective:
Psalm 121 is a praise song written about the power and protection of God.

Application:
Sometimes when we are in a low place surrounded by what feels like giant mountains, we look up and wonder where we may find a break, or some help. This song makes it clear that we can depend on God for the help we need. The last phrase of verse 2 says, "the maker of heaven and earth." The author knows who God is and attributes all the good to Him.

Its important that we depend on God not only in the hard valley times, but also when we are on the peak of the mountain. When everything seems to be going well. If God will see you through the bad times, He will bless you with the good.

Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Thank you for everything that is good in my life. Thank you for turning the bad things into learning situations. Thank you for the protection from the bad stuff. Help us to be a people that understand that you are there in the good and bad times.

The Big Picture

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3 Key Verse: 3:11-13
It is beautiful how God has done everything at the right time. He has put a sense of eternity in people's minds. Yet, mortals still can't grasp what God is doing from the beginning to the end [of time]. I realize that there's nothing better for them to do than to be cheerful and enjoy what is good in their lives. It is a gift from God to be able to eat and drink and experience the good that comes from every kind of hard work.

Objective:
In Chapter 3 of Ecclesiastes we see That god has set up a divine and eternal order and structure to the world. Everything has its time and place. The writer goes on to tell us that there is injustice where justice should be; wickedness where good should be. Says we are like the animals living and dying and nothing else.

Application:
We have a GPS unit in our car and I like to use it from time to time to get the big picture of where I am going, especially if it is a new place. Once I have been to a place a few times I pretty much have a overall map of the area and how to get there in my head. I may not know the street names or distances but I do know where I am. In fact my wife has tried many times to surprise me by blindfolding me and taking me for a drive. I usually end up ruining the surprise by giving here a play-by-play of where we are with my blindfold on. I like to know the big picture.

The Big Picture of life though is an entirely different story. It is so hard to get my head around. If you would have said 15 years ago I would be working in a church and doing a daily bible blog I would have LOLed. But God had the big picture, and God was able to use my experiences to get me to where I am today.

How much more difficult then is it to grasp the eternity of time big picture. We need to trust in God that it is good. Jesus said, do not worry about tomorrow, and who can add a day to their life by worrying. I think we need to understand that God is in control and pray for those in need, but as the writer says, "there's nothing better for them to do than to be cheerful and enjoy what is good in their lives."

Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Thank you for everything that is good in my life. Thank you for turning the bad things into learning situations. I aks that you help me trust you. I ask that you help us learn to understand that it is okay to not know the big picture. Lord guide us and teach us.

Stand out from the crowd

Scripture: Song of Solomon 2 Key Verse: 2:2-3a
Like a lily among thorns, so is my true love among the young women. Like an apple tree among the trees in the forest, so is my beloved among the young men.

Objective:
A love song/poem between Solomon and his lover.

Application:
The back and forth style of this poem is a vision of two young lovers singing about each other. The poem is a great example of the poetic literature of the Bible. The ample use of similes and metaphors are a clear indication that this book is not to be taken literally. However there is still much that can be learned from the words in this book.

What I learn from the selected passage above is that your true love must stand out from the crowd, like a lily among thorns, or a apple tree among pine trees or such. This is the way it should be. The problem is at times especially later into marriage we forget how much our significant other stood out to us. We must remember these times and lean upon them in order to get through the tough times that may come.

Prayer:
God thank you for my wife and family. Please never let me take them for granted. Help me t remember the courtship process and the moments of kid cuteness, in order that I press forward during the difficult times. Help us as christ Followers be examples of good marriage skills, not perfect, but willing to work things out.

Legacy

Scripture: Proverbs 10 Key Verse: 10:7
The name of a righteous person remains blessed, but the names of wicked people will rot away.

Objective:
This chapter of proverbs is a bunch of one liners that are set up mostly as good vs. bad (actions, people, mindsets)

Application:
The name of a person in my mind is the legacy of the person. When we die we leave a legacy whether we like it or not. There are three types of legacies; Righteous, wicked, and Apathetic. The verse talks about the first two. The Righteous remains blessed, and is remembered for what they have done. The Wicked rot away, and if not forgotten are thought of with much disdain. The Apathetic are quickly forgotten about, because they have had little impact on this world.

Legacies do not have to be world-wide. Change the life of one person and that will create your legacy. Jesus said that those that believe in Him will do greater things than he did. I think He wants us to create a legacy not for us, but for His name. However, there are people out there creating a negative legacy for His name. There needs to be a revolution that teaches the world the true legacy of Jesus.

Prayer:
Jesus thank you for everything you have done. Help me be a legacy for you. Help me show the world who you truly are. Help us become more than apathetic christians that let your name be stomped on in the mud. Let the world see the true Christ Followers.

Kung-Fu Grip

Scripture: Proverbs 4 Key Verse: 4:11-13
I have taught you the way of wisdom. I have guided you along decent paths. When you walk, your stride will not be hampered. Even if you run, you will not stumble. Cling to discipline. Do not relax your grip on it. Keep it because it is your life.

Objective:
This chapter of proverbs is the beginning of the wisdom given from father to son. It is more about the importance of the wisdom and what it can do for us. This leads into several chapters of advice that is relevant even to us today.

Application:
This book is most likely written by Solomon, since most wisdom comes from him in the Old Testament. However he got the wisdom from God. The whole book can be read like God the Father's letter to us. And like a good father or mother discipline is always used to teach us right from wrong. God may discipline us as a parent, but he never does so out of revenge or extreme anger.

I am learning this lesson as a parent. It was one thing being a Youth Pastor and a Resident Advisor trying to discipline youth when they break the rules, but now that I have to do it 24/7 it is hard to do without getting angry or frustrated. I just hope that my kids will understand that the discipline I give them is for their best interest.

Keep your eye on the ball is a common phrase that is echoed in these verses. The verses are reminding us that it is easy to lose your grip on what you have learned and slide back into your old habits and wrongdoings. Cling to the lessons taught always keep them in focus, then you will not stumble. Growing up I had G.I Joe action figures with Kung-fu Grip, these guys had hands that could hold onto weapons and stuff. There hands were always ready to hold on; are yours?

Prayer:
Father please guide me down the right paths. Help me to remember the lessons you have taught me, through life and the Bible. Keep my grip firm upon the wisdom I have learned. Help us avoid being pulled back into our old ways, and not to straqy onto the path of wicked people.

The Blog Will Return Tomorrow

Sorry, for my delay in posting. With all the Easter Prep and busy-ness of getting Holy week ready, I realized I ended up taking an unplanned hiatus. I will be back tomorrow with a new post.

Fear The Lord

Scripture: Psalm 103 Key Verse: 103:8-11
The LORD is compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive. He will not always accuse us of wrong or be angry [with us] forever. He has not treated us as we deserve for our sins or paid us back for our wrongs. As high as the heavens are above the earth-- that is how vast his mercy is toward those who fear him.

Objective:
A praise psalm. Recounting how wonderful God has been, is and will be.

Application:
"Those who fear him," the whole fear thing has always thrown me for a loop. Why must we fear a Lord that is "compassionate, merciful, patient, and always ready to forgive?" Well I think the problem is in the translation or understanding of what the word means. According to one website: "The word most often translated in the Old Testament as fear is the Hebrew word (transliterated as yirah) which can possibly mean fear, but also means awe, reverence, respect and devotion. A closely related Hebrew word is (transliterated as yare) which can mean fearful, but also means to stand in awe, reverence or honor."

This understanding of the word makes the whole passage understandable. God is merciful if we are respectful to God. God is waiting to forgive us. That statement makes me stand in awe and reverence for the Lord. Even though we continually sin or fall short God is ready to forgive us and not treat us as we deserve to be. That is what love truly means.

Prayer:
Lord you are merciful and just and I stand in awe. You died for our sins, paving the way to a closer relationship with you. Help us remember this and to always remember the wonders that you have done. Help us grow into the people we should be, and thank you for loving us for who we are.

Building a House

Scripture: I Chronicles 17 Key Verse: 17:4-6
"Say to David, my servant, 'This is what the LORD says: You must not build this house for me to live in. I haven't lived in a house from the day I brought Israel out [of Egypt] to this day, but I've gone from tent site to tent site, moving the tent [of meeting] from one location [to another]. In all the places I've moved with all Israel, did I ever ask any of the judges of Israel whom I ordered to be shepherds of my people why they didn't build me a house of cedar?'"

Objective:
1 Chronicles 17 is the story of David wanting to build a house for the Lord and the Lord telling David not to. The Lord then goes on to tell of the one that will build a house for him, and establish the kingdom forever. This leader would be a son of David thus making his family know forever. David praises God for everything.

Application:
The house of the Lord does get built by David's Son Solomon. However, I believe the passage is talking about the kingdom that will be set up by Jesus. The house of God is not a physical place but the hearts of men. This can only happen because Jesus died for our sins. This act of sacrifice allows us to connect with God in a way that only Adam and Eve knew.

Buildings and tents come and go with time. They can be easily destroyed by an enemy, but a solid relationship will stand the test of time. Through the entire bible we see God continually trying to establish this relationship. He finally pays the ultimate price, and allows us to make the decision whether we want the relationship or not. Have or will you invited God into your life? I pray that God will reveal himself to you in new ways.

Prayer:
Lord, build your house in my heart. Live in me. Help us to continually fill our lives with you. The church building is not were you live. We carry you throughout our lives.Reveal yourself to us in a new way that those that haven't decided yet can make a choice.

New Bible Post Coming Tomorrow

Sorry I missed a couple of days. I will be back on track tomorrow morning.

Until then enjoy this superhero clip. Thanks SNL. Our church is in the middle of a Heroes series and this is just too funny.

Be All That You Can Be

Scripture: I Samuel 20 Key Verse: 20:17
Once again Jonathan swore an oath to David because of his love for David. He loved David as much as [he loved] himself.

Objective:
This is the story of Jonathan being loyal to David. David comes to Jonathan son of King Saul and asks why it is that Saul is trying to kill him. Jonathan knows nothing about the threat, and doesn't believe his father would do such a thing without him knowing about it. David asks jonathan to find out and let him hide until he does. Jonathan goes to dinner the next couple of days and finally Saul freaks out when David is no where to be found. Jonathan sees his dads true colors and helps david escape.

Application:
This is a great story about trust and loyalty. Once Jonathan realized the truth he stuck by David despite being threatened with being disowned and death. Jonathan believed in David and knew that the Lord was with him. He also understood what true love was about, sacrifice. Jesus said, " greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." The greatest commandment was to love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul and mind, and to love your neighbor as you loved yourself. Jonathan may not have heard these words spoken by Jesus, but he was living them out.

How often do we put others ahead of ourselves? Is there someone that may need something you have? I need to look around me and help out, then I will be the hero God has made me to be. We can truly only be heroes because Jesus shines through me and you. Loving yourself is important, but loving others is just as important. The army has a saying, "Be all that you can be." The only way to do this is to let God shine through you.

Prayer:
Lord, Shine through us! Be a part of our lives so greatly that people can't help but see you. Lord you are the true hero, help us love the way you loved, and live the way you lived.

Santa Claus or God

Scripture: Psalm 19 Key Verse: 19:12-14
Who can notice every mistake? Forgive my hidden faults. Keep me from sinning. Do not let anyone gain control over me. Then I will be blameless, and I will be free from any great offense. May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my defender.

Objective:
This is a song of praise. The writer is trying to get the idea across that God has set up the world, and that God is perfect, dependable, correct, radiant, pure and true.

Application:
It is sometimes asked how Go can know everything. Thoughts of Santa Claus pop into peoples heads and think that God must operate the same way, spying on people and watching everything they do. Ready to judge them and give them a lump of coal if they make a mistake or are bad. In actuality, God is outside time and knows every thing we are going to do, not just the stuff we have done. This doesn't negate freewill. It just means Go has read the end of the book.

God has seen the bad things we have done and will do, and has still forgiven us. Nothing is hidden form him. God is forgiving and loving, all we need to do is live in this forgiveness and love. This doesn't mean we can do whatever we want and God will be okay with it. It means that when we make mistakes God understands. Trying to live a blameless life is still the best way to live.

Prayer:
Lord, help us live our lives in a blameless way. Help us fight all temptation. Teach us your ways Lord and mold us into the people you have created us to be. May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my defender.

Heaven on Earth

Scripture: 1 Samuel 17 Key Verse: 17:47
Then everyone gathered here will know that the LORD can save without sword or spear, because the LORD determines every battle's outcome. He will hand all of you over to us.

Objective:
This chapter is the story of David vs. Goliath. Goliath was a Philistine Warrior and stood 10 feet tall. He wore giant armor and a had a huge shield. David was an Israelite shepherd boy that delivered food to his brothers in the battle against the Philistines. David knew the Lord would see him through a battle against Goliath, just as he carried him through battles against Lions and Bears. David faced off with Goliath and Goliath came in for the kill. David used his sling to hit Goliath with a stone on the forehead. Goliath fell over. To make sure he was dead David took Goliath's sword and cut of Goliath's head.

Application:
The Lord can save without sword or spear! Sometimes we think the only way through a battle is to fight. be it a battle with and enemy or a battle with a loved one. I have had my fair share of arguments and hissy-fits, and trust me that they don't work. In the end the best way to deal with an issue is to deal with the issue. Jesus said if you are giving you're offering and remember that someone has something against you, put down your offering and fix the problem.

When my wife and I sit down and talk things out we always come to a better understanding of each other and our points-of-view. On the contrary when we fight or hold stuff in all we do is create and air of tension or anger. Neither is a good environment to raise children in, or to live in for that matter.

Our culture though likes to see the fights. It stems back to the days of the gladiators, probably even further. People gathered to watch people fight, to watch the victor kill the loser. They gathered to watch Christians and others get eaten by lions. Today's world is not much better. We have numerous television shows about dysfunctional families. My wife and I were watching My Big Redneck Wedding on CMT, and then ran an ad for new shows coming to CMT. The ad had the tagline of Dysfunction is fun. Watching others fight and argue has become our national pastime.

Prayer:
Father God, Help us find ways of ending conflict without bloodshed or even fighting. I know that there are times when it may be necessary to fight, but Lord be with us on a daily basis when it isn't the thing to do. Help us build a little heaven on earth.

What.. me worry?

Scripture: Psalm 23 Key Verse: All
The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD's house for days without end.

Objective:
This is a song of praise for the LORD. It talks about the love the LORD has for us and the peace and comfort we can find in God.

Application:
Even with such a powerful song about God I know there are times that I forget that He is with me, and begin to look around a get fearful. My grandmother was a worrier, so I think I come by it genetically. I like to try to figure out every possible outcome for the scenario I am in. The problem is I then always expect the worst. I may not be walking through a dark valley of death, but I do feel like I am. I have to remember to trust God. As the scripture says, "Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life."

So people ask why is there trouble then. Why do I find myself having to wade through the valley of death. Well all I know is it is not God's plan for us to have to go that route. Maybe it is us making mistakes, or perhaps its because we live in a fallen world. What ever the reason, if we remember to ground ourselves in the love and grace of God then we will be okay.

Prayer:
Father God, You are my guide through life. I ask that you help me cling to you. Anoint my head with oil and stay close to me all the days of my life. Renew our souls and help us renew our world.

Taste of Heaven

Scripture: I Samuel 16 Key Verse: 16:7
But the LORD told Samuel, "Don't look at his appearance or how tall he is, because I have rejected him. God does not see as humans see. Humans look at outward appearances, but the LORD looks into the heart."

Objective:
In This chapter we get to read more about the way God used Samuel, and we are introduced to David as the next king. Samuel is told to anoint one of Jesse's sons ith oil, and with that the Spirit of Go would be with him. Samuel does this. The last verses of the chapter are about the fact that King Saul is being tormented and the only relief he can find is when someone plays the lyre. The best lyre player is David, and Saul brings him into the household, not knowing that david was just anointed as the next king.

Application:
A lot is going on in this chapter as well, but as I was reading it everything seem t fade away when I read the key focus verse. I have said many times God chooses the unexpected, the broken, or the smallest to get the job done, but it dawned on me this morning that God chooses by the heart of a man not any other characteristics. God doesn't see race or sex, physical looks or wealth, or anything that we as humans pride ourselves on. Everyone he has chosen has to have the heart to do what is asked.

What would the world be like if we started to look at people by what's on the inside? I bet we would find a lot more common ground than we have thought existed. In heaven we are going to be with a bunch of people from places we may not know anyone from right now. Why is it we are going to wait till then to reach out and meet new people. God wants us to live now, like we will be living in heaven. Look on the inside of the people around you. Reach out to those that may look different than you. Embrace a wide range of people, and you will have a taste of heaven.

Prayer:
Lord I have come to the understanding that I need to look at the world through your eyes, and not the eyes of the culture I am living in. Help me look inside people an stop getting hung up on color, race and all that stuff. Help us make this world a little like heaven.

Sea of Troubles

Scripture: I Samuel 3 Key Verse: 3:13
I told him that I would hand down a permanent judgement against his household because he knew about his sons' sin--that they were cursing God--but he didn't try to stop them.

Objective:
The calling of Samuel. Samuel is called by God, and he thinks it is Eli. Eli says it is not him, and that Samuel should go back to bed. The third time this happens Eli realizes it is God calling Samuel, and that Samuel needs to respond to God the next time he calls. Samuel does this and God tells him about the judgment he is giving Eli. When Eli hears the judgment he says God should do what He thinks is right.

Application:
This chapter has a few different ideas that popped out at me, but the main one that is sticking around is the idea that Eli is judged guilty because he didn't try to stop his sons. I know that we are covered in the Grace of God, and this is different from when this story took place, but we are still sinners. One of the places I think we fall short from the glory of God is that of social justice. We stand idly by while other people are going through so much torment. I am not just talking about third world and fourth world countries where some atrocious things are happening, but also right in our own backyard. Homelessness, Poverty, Classism, Racism, Ageism, Healthcare these are just a few examples of things that happen around us everyday. We may not be doing these things ourselves, and I pray that we aren't, but when it is time to stand before what will God say?

Currently on t.v. there is a great show on called Eli Stone. Its about a lawyer turned prophet and the things a higher power wants him to do. He is to use his strengths as a lawyer to handle cases that will make a difference. How can you use your strength to make a difference in this world?

Prayer:
Heavenly Father there is so much around me that I see is wrong. You do not want these things to happen, and I know many people ask How can God let these things happen. Father I ask the same question of them and of myself? Help me make a difference in this world. Help us rise up against the injustices and "take arms against a sea of troubles and by opposing end them."

Family Ties

Scripture: Ruth 4 Key Verse: 4:13-15
Then Boaz took Ruth home, and she became his wife. He slept with her, and the LORD gave her the ability to become pregnant. So she gave birth to a son. The women said to Naomi, "Praise the LORD, who has remembered today to give you someone who will take care of you. The child's name will be famous in Israel. he will bring you new life and support you in your old age. your daughter-in-law who loves you is better to you than seven sons, because she has given birth."

Objective:
This is all about Boaz working it out to help out Naomi and Ruth, Ruth becoming Boaz's wife, and Ruth and Boaz having a son that will help take care of Naomi and be the grandfather to David.

Application:
Lineage is important to the Israelites, over and over you see lists of genealogy. So-and-so begat so-and-so. To me this helps in understanding that the Bible isn't a fluff propaganda piece to make Jewish or Christian belief systems look good all the time. Why would you want to show that King David had Moabite blood. The only reason is that it was true, and God ordained it to be.

God has a funny way of making the best of all situations. Here we have two relatives that have the opportunity to help out Naomi and Ruth. One chooses not too because it will mar his inheritance. The other does help not caring about his inheritance, and receives an even greater one by becoming the great grandfather to David. Sometimes we need to put aside our selfish sides to embrace others.

Prayer:
Lord help me reach out of my comfort zone and embrace the people around me. Help me be a person that can be a friend to all. Not that I must like what everyone does or how they live, but help me be able to find common ground. Help us make this world a better place by crossing the lines we have drawn in the sand.

What a Character

Scripture: Ruth 3 Key Verse: 3:10-11
Boaz replied, "May the LORD bless you, my daughter. This lat kindness--that you didn't go after the younger men, whether rich or poor -- is better than the first. Don't be afraid, my daughter. I will do whatever you say. The whole town knows that you are a woman who has strength of character."

Objective:
Naomi tells Ruth what to do to get the attention of Boaz. Boaz goes to sleep after a night of drinking and eating. Ruth uncovers his feet and then lies there next to them. He awakes to find her there and she asks to be covered and taken care of. He says he will ask her relative to do it, and if he doesn't do it Boaz will do it himself.

Application:
This passage is interesting. I don't quite understand the reasoning behind the uncovering of his feet and laying down on or near them. But what I do see is two people who have amazing character. Boaz could have easily taken advantage of this situation. He woke up to find a young woman in his sleeping area. Ruth could have taken advantage of Boaz to get what she wanted.

Character is huge for these two people. It should be huge for all of us. Regardless of God we should liv our lives so that people will say there is someone of has strength of character. But how much more important is it to represent the Almighty Lord in such a way that people know who God is by only seeing you. When I became a youth pastor the officiating pastor asked me if I was ready to live my life beyond reproach. This is something we should all ask ourselves if we are a follower of Christ. There have been plenty of Christian role-models who have fallen down on the job for one reason or another, but I would wager a guess that it was mainly because they took there eye off that which they were modeling. We need to cling to God so that we can let him shine through us.

Prayer:
Lord I know that I will fall short, that is why you paid the price, but help me to represent you in the best way I can. Help me be a person of strong character and own up to my mistakes. Help me live my life beyond reproach. Lord raise of a generation of Christ-Followers that will show the world who you truly are.

You Need to Work

Scripture: Ruth 2 Key Verse: 2:15 & 20a
When she got up to gather grain, Boaz ordered his servants, "Let her gather grain even among the bundles. Don't give her any problems.

Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, "May the LORD bless him. The Lord hasn't stopped being kind to the people--living or dead."

Objective:
The story of how Ruth met Boaz as she gathered grain from the field for her and her Naomi.

Application:
Todays lesson is simple. Sometimes God doesn't answer prayers the way we think he should. I am sure it would have been nice if Boaz would just have given her all the grain she wanted for her and Naomi, but she had to work to get it. It doesn't mean God doesn't care but he gives u the ability to earn what we get. It is a blessing to be able to work and earn what we need.

Prayer:
Lord remind me of the blessings you have given me in my job and life. Thanks for giving me life so that I may work. Help us be the people you want us to be.

No Matter What

Scripture: Ruth 1 Key Verse: 1:15-18
Naomi said, "Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods. Go back with your sister-in-law." but Ruth answered, "Don't force me to leave you. Don't make me turn back from following you. Wherever you go, I will go, and wherever you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and I will be buried there with you. May the LORD strike me down if anything but death separates you and me!" When Naomi saw Ruth was determined to go with her, she ended the conversation.

Objective:
Ruth is the daughter-in-law of Naomi. All the men in the family are dead due to famine, and all that is left is Naomi and the two daughter-in-laws. Ruth will not leave her mother-in-law alone and stays with her.

Application:
Have we ever cared about something or someone so much that we have chosen to stay with it even if it meant giving up something else. I am not talking about things someone can become addicted to like alcohol or drugs, but in some ways even those things can fit. I am talking about a conscious decision to choose one thing over another. Choose family over work, or health over junk food. These decisions are important ones to make.

How awesome would it be to have God in our lives like this. If we could make the words spoken about Naomi our words to God. I will go where you go and stay where you stay. I am going to follow you no matter what. We need this to be the way we think. I am not a christian(in the image of Christ), I am truly a Christ-Follower. I will go where he leads me.

Prayer:
Lord I am yours lead me where you want me to be. I will cling to you in the good and the bad times. Help us be your people your followers and reach out to those that need your love.

Not Again

Scripture: Judges 16 Key Verse: 16:15-17
Delilah said to Samson, "How can you say that you love me when your heart isn't mine? You've made fun of me three times now, but you still haven't told me what makes you so strong." Everyday she made his life miserable with her questions. She pestered him until he wished he were dead. Finally, he told her the truth. He told her, "Because I', a Nazirite, no one has ever cut the hair on my head. I was dedicated to God before I was born. If my hair is ever shaved off, my strength will leave me. Then I'll be like any other man."

Objective:
The story of Samson's final days. The Philistines wanted him tied up to be tortured. So they devised a plan to use the woman that samson fell in love with. She would get him to tell the reason for his strength. She tries three times and each time he had lied to her. After several more attempts making his life miserable, he gives in and tells the truth. Which ultimately leads to his capture and torture. During which he prayed to God to give him strength once more to knock over the building. He did and all in the building died, including Samson.

Application:
There are several ways to look at this chapter in Judges, but one that jumps out at me is about sin. We tend to do what Samson did and continue to put ourselves in places or situations that we will most likely slip and fall. If an alcoholic truly is ready to give up alcohol they probably don't frequent bars and nightclubs. When a married man is attracted to another woman at work or somewhere, it is best that man doesn't spend alone time with that woman.

However we do this all the time. We put ourselves in situations where we will sin. We tend to think we can handle it, or it was just a momentary lapse last time. This is played out time and time again by the Hollywood elite that hop in and out of rehab and jail, just to go back to whatever it was that got them there in the first place. When we are in a situation that we know is tempting for us we need to leave. As Jason and Grant from the Ghost Hunters say, "When in doubt, get the hell out."

Prayer:
Spirit guide me, remind me of trouble spots, help me remember the places i know I have trouble staying above water. When I am in these places give me the strength to get out. Help us surround ourselves with places and situations that will glorify you, not make us fall.

No Bench-Warmers

Scripture: Judges 7 Key Verse: 7:5-7
So Gideon took the men down to the water. The LORD said to him, "Separate those who lap water with their tongues like dogs from those who kneel down to drink." Three hundred men lapped water with their hands to their mouths. All the rest of the men knelt down to drink water. Then the LORD said to Gideon, "with the 300 men who lapped water I will save you and hand Midian over to you. All the other men should go home."

Objective:
This is the battle that was described yesterday to Gideon. Gideon was told that he had too many men, and that Israel could still think it was by their own strength. God told Gideon to let the ones who are scared to go home, 22,000 men left. Then he was told to take the ones that drink water like dogs. So he ended up with and army of 300. After overhearing a dream one of the Midianites had, Gideon knew God was going to hand them over to him. The battle was easy as a horn and a lamp. Once he got the men on the run he called in reinforcements.

Application:
Overwhelming odds sometimes makes me second guess myself, but if it is something that God has asked us to do then we need to have no fear. The last two days we have looked at Gideon who is the weakest of the weak. We have watched him doubt God but at the same time he moved forward. We have seen him give tests to God, but at the same time he was in positions where God could answer.

Sometimes I tend to sit still while waiting for God's response. Maybe I need to get the ball into play and listen for the Lord's reply when I am ready for the next step. It is hard to not know the whole plan before beginning a journey. I have to trust in the fact that Go does know the whole plan, and if he has asked me to do something he will see it through. So get off the sideline and into the game, thats when the plays will be called.

Prayer:
Lord I don't want to be a bench-warmer. Help me make the moves that you want me to make. Help me remember that it is by your power things are accomplished. Lord us be the people you ask us to be and go to the places you send us.

Anything is Possible

Scripture: Judges 6 Key Verse: 6:14-15
The LORD turned to him and said, "You will rescue Israel from Midian with the strength you have. I am sending you." Gideon said to him, "Excuse me, sir! How can I rescue Israel? Look at my whole family. It's the weakest one in Manasseh. And me? I'm the least important member of my family. The LORD replied, "I will be with you. You will defeat Midian as if it were [only] one man."

Objective:
Judges chapter six; we find the calling of Gideon to be a hero for Israel. It begins by telling us Israel has once again become worshippers of other gods. Since they are "sinning" God removes the promise of protection, and they get trampled by a guy named Midian and his men. God meets with Gideon to tell him he will save Israel from Midian. Gideon asks for a sign by having the Lord wait until he can bring his gift. Using the wool fleece he gets further confirmation.

Application:
God uses the most unlikely people to do the most unlikely things. If God would have raised an already powerful leader to save the Israelites from Midian, it could have been seen as that person doing it on his own. God chose the weakest member of the weakest family. For Gideon to pull this off he will have to rely on the power of God, and everyone will know that God is with him.

In our lives we may be asked by God to do things out of our comfort zone. To do the things that may b a bit intimidating to us, but rest assured God will not ask you to do anything without giving you everything you need to accomplish the task. God will be with you and with God on your side anything is possible.

Prayer:
Lord remove all fear and doubt when I face obstacles. Help me live in the trust that you are with me. Help me remember that it is by your power things are accomplished. Lord us be the people you ask us to be and go to the places you send us.

Model Follower

Scripture: Joshua 24 Key Verse: 24:7-11
But if you don't want to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Even if you choose the gods your ancestors served on the other side of the Euphrates or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you live, my family and I will serve the LORD.

Objective:
This chapter of Joshua is the recap of the Israelites. It begins with their start with Abraham and ends with the death of Joshua. This is the final speech Joshua gives to his people before he passes away.

Application:
Joshua understood that it was a decision to follow the Lord. He knew he couldn't force anyone to follow the Lord, they were going to choose the gods they wanted to follow. He did know who he and his family was going to follow.

It is the same today. We can't force anyone to follow God, nor does God want us to force them. God doesn't even force people to believe. It is a choice that must be made by all. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, Jew or something else, you have to decide to come to and receive the gift of the Cross.

Prayer:
Lord help me be a model follower. Help me and my family serve you in any way we can. Remind us that it is our job to point the direction, and not force people to believe. Lord thanks for loving us so much that you made a way for us to be rconciled with you.

Spiritual Nap

Scripture: Joshua 7 Key Verse: 7:7-11
Joshua said, "Almighty LORD, why did you bring these people across the Jordan River? Was it to hand us over to the Amorites so that they could destroy us? I wish we had been content to live on the other side of the Jordan! Lord, what else can I say after Israel ran away from its enemy? When the Canaanites and everyone who lives in the land hears about it, they will surround us and remove every memory of us from the earth. What will you do then so that your great name [will be remembered]?"
The LORD said to Joshua, "Get up! What are you doing bowing on the ground? Israel has sinned. They have ignored the requirements that I have placed on them. They have taken what I claimed for myself and put it among their own goods. They have not only stolen, but they have also lied."

Objective:
We see the aftermath of the fall of Jericho, but all does not go as planned. One man decided that some of the loot that was set aside for the Lord looked really nice, so he took it. The Lord held the entire people responsible for these actions. The lack of God's attention and the over confidence in the Israelites contributed to the smackdown they were handed in a much smaller city days later. This sets up the dramatic cry of Joshua to the Lord. God answers Joshua by saying, get up and do something about the sin in your people. I will help you. The man confesses to the crime and the punishment, although harsh to me, was given to him and his family.

Application:
About 6 blog posts ago i wrote about getting off the Waaa-mbulance, the Israelites needed to learn this lesson many times. You would think they would stop being so over dramatic when one thing happens that isn't good for them. It reminds me of my three-year-old daughter who is for the most part a pretty happy-go-lucky child until she gets a little tired, then she becomes an emmy award winning dramatic actress. She can throw herself to the ground in grief with the best of them. It is hard sometimes not to just sit back and laugh at the performance, other times it can be a bit frustrating.

We tend to do the same thing with God. When we are spiritually awake things tend to not affect us as much as they do when we get a little tired spiritually. When we are tired and haven't been spending time resting in the Lord we tend to lose it when bad things happen. We may even blame God. "Why did you let this happen to me?" Why do bad things always happen to me?"

Sometimes the things are bad, very bad, but other times in retrospect they were merely learning experiences that we can use to become better people. Maybe we need a Spiritual Nap, so we can wake up more refreshed and ready to go. God wants the best for us and will carry us through the bad things. All we need to do is clear out the sin in our lives and hold on tight.

Prayer:
Lord, Your grace is amazing. You never stop loving me even when I am angry and grumpy at you. You are still ready to receive me into your open arms. Help us rest in those arms, and clear out the sin in my life, so that we can awake refreshed and renewed.

Great Big Universe

This reminded me of God today.

Get your own Moonk!

Hands and Feet

Scripture: Joshua 6 Key Verse: 6:20
"So the troops shouted very loudly when they heard the blast of the rams' horns, and the wall collapsed. The troops charged straight ahead and captured the city."

Objective:
This is the story of the fall of Jericho. God had promised the city to the Israelites. The Jerichoites feared the the Israelites. The Israelites were commanded to walk around the city once a day for six days, and seven times on the seventh. After the seventh time the priests would blow the seven horns and the armed men would shout. This is what brought the walls of Jericho down.

Application:
I wonder what it would have ben like to see the Israelites performing this tactic. To be sitting in side the walls of Jericho and watching this enemy so cooly walking around your city, not doing anything. Then the seventh day they turn and yell. I think I would be scared out of my mind.

On the other hand you have the Israelites, who are probably wondering what God is up too as they walk in circles and not know exactly what is happening. How are walls suppose to fall just by us walking and yelling?

You see the key here is that God was at work. God had a plan, and the Israelites were letting God use them as his hands and feet. No longer do we have an enemy of flesh and blood, but we still have plenty to fight in this world; Injustice, Poverty, Homelessness, Hunger, and Racism to name a few. The Lord needs us to be his Hands and Feet in the fight for this world. He has a plan and it is in play, are we a part of it?

Prayer:
Lord, Let me be your hands and feet, go where you send me, go where you send me. These lyrics Lord are my prayer. I ask that you use me in the fight against all that is not right in this world. The church needs to rise up and fight for those that can't fight for themselves. Lord give us instructions, and courage to complete them.

Better Than We Do

Scripture: Joshua 2 Key Verse: 2:9-11
"She said to them, 'I know the LORD will give you this land. Your presence terrifies us. All the people in this country are deathly afraid of you. We've heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea in front of you when you left Egypt. We've also heard what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites, who ruled east of the Jordan river. We've heard how you destroyed them for the LORD. When we heard it, we lost heart. There was no courage left in any of us because of you. The LORD your God is the God of heaven and earth.'"

Objective:
This chapter begins with the no leader of the Israelites sending a couple of spies into Jericho, a city promised by the Lord. The two spies sneak in and hide in Rahab's home. Knowing the Lord is with them and they will take over the city, she makes a deal with them to protect herself and her family. holding up her end of the bargain she hides the spies and helps them escape. The spies return to Joshua to tell them what had happened.

Application:
Sometimes our enemies understand God better than we do. The Lord made a pretty strong promise to Joshua in chapter 1, saying that whoever opposes him will be destroyed. Yet he still needed to send in spies to the country side, even though the last time they sent in spies they ended up walking through the desert for forty years. What the spies found out was that God had prepared a way for their victory. All the previous things that had happened to the Israelites made the people in Jericho and across the country deathly afraid of them, because they knew the true God was with them.

God has done many great things in our lives and he can use event he bad things for good, So why is it that whenever we come upon a new problem we go back to square one with God. The enemies of the Israelites understood who God was from the previous actions, shouldn't we be able to trust God more and more because of what He has done in our lives.

Prayer:
Lord, Remind me of the great things you have done in my life. Help me to learn from the victories and defeats in my life. I know that you will use all things for good, so let me rest in the fact that you are mighty and great. Teach us, oh Lord, to have faith in you despite ourselves. Help us have the same faith in you that our enemies do when they see you coming.

Do The Right Thing!

Scripture: Deuteronomy 28 Key Verse: 28:1 & 15
"Carefully obey the LORD your God, and faithfully follow all his commands that I'm giving you today. If you do, the LORD your God will place you high above all other nations in the world."

"Obey the LORD your God, and faithfully follow all his commands and laws that I am giving you today. If you don't, all these curses will come to you and stay close to you"

Objective:
Interesting once again we see the blessings and the curses for following or not following God. Just like before the curses far out number the blessings, and are way more descriptive. The Israelites are told in no uncertain terms what will happen if they chose to not follow the LORD.

Application:
I am a parent of a almost three-year-old daughter, so when i read this passage it looks very familiar. Understanding that I can't forced my daughter to do things, I hope she makes the right choices. To aid her in making these decisions I explain the consequences of her actions both good and bad. I let her know that if she makes the right choices she will be rewarded, but if she chooses to not do the right thing the consequences will be different. Not only will she face what ever outcome she has chosen to suffer, she may have to spend time in the naughty spot.

God is doing this with the Israelites. He is letting them know what choice is a good choice and explains to them the good and bad reasons. God says that is you do what is right then good will happen, if you do hat is wrong bad happens. He says this pretty explicitly through Moses. Moses spends 14 verses on the good and 53 on the bad.

We face decisions everyday that will have consequences. The consequences may not be so loudly declared, but we know they exist. What choices will we make? Will we choose to do the right thing?

Prayer:
Lord, I know you have tried to help me make the right decisions in the past, and I have failed to make them. I understand that the ultimate consequence of separation from You is why you came to Earth and died for my sins. You paid the price! Please remind me of the consequences when I face a choice to do good or bad. Help us Lord be the people you want us to be.

Seek Ye First

Scripture: Deuteronomy 8 Key Verse: 8:12-14
"You will eat all you want. You will build nice houses and live in them. Your herds and flocks, silver and gold, and everything else you have will increase. When this happens, be careful that you don't become arrogant and forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of slavery in Egypt."

Objective:
This chapter is all about the success the Israelites will have, and how to treat God in times of success. It tells them that they will be destroyed if they forget who gave them everything they have. It explains to them that the last 40 years was preparation for what they are about to receive. They learn that God is a like a parent teaching us through discipline.

Application:
There is a great scene in the movie, "The End," where we see Burt Reynolds decide that he doesn't want to commit suicide anymore and chooses to live. The problem is Burt is some pretty rough waters of the ocean. He begins to swim towards shore, and also begins to make promises to God. God, if you get me back I will give you 20% of my money. As he gets closer but grows more tired, the percentage goes up. It continues to climb until he reaches shore and the percentage drops to 5% or something.

In times of need it is easy to cling to God and ask for help. We make promises that we may or may not keep. The problem truly develops when we are beginning to prosper or things are going well. Its when I begin to think that I can handle things on my own that I begin to make more and more mistakes. The scriptures say to "seek ye first the Kingdom of God," not second; not after I get my stuff done, but first. We must remember that in the good and the bad; God is there. In the good times and the bad times; God will remain faithful, will you?

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thanks for helping me when times get rough. Thanks for bringing me out of despair. Thanks for carrying me across the rough waters. I ask that you remind me to keep you close when the waters are calm, and times are going great. Remind me that you have given me everything I have. Help us "Seek You First." Thank you for loving us.

Part of That World

Scripture: Deuteronomy 4 Key Verse: 4:27-31
"The LORD will scatter you among the people of the world, and only a few of you will be left among the nations where the LORD will force you to live. There you will worship wooden and stone gods made by human hands. These gods can't see, hear, eat, or smell. But if you look for the LORD your God when you are among those nations, you will find him whenever you search for him with all your heart and with all your soul. When you're in distress and all these things happen to you, then you will finally come back to the LORD your God and obey him. The LORD you God is a merciful God. He will not abandon you, destroy you, or forget the promise to your ancestors that he swore he would keep."

Objective:
As they were standing east of the Jordan river, Moses reminded those that were left what the Lord had told them as far as rules and promises went. In Chapter 4 he urges them to remember the rules, and live by them so they will obtain the promises. He tells them what will happen if they don't, and also what reminded them of what happened before.

Application:
There are days that I feel scattered among the people of the world. I know that there are days when I choose to not only live in the world but be part of the world. Arial from Disney's "The Little Mermaid" sang a song called "Part of your world." In this song she goes on about what a better place it is out of the water. She wishes she could shed her fins and be there with the people dancing and singing. Some days I sing this song. I look at how easy it seems the world has it. We both go through things that are tough there is no doubt. But I don't see them getting up early to do devotions, or fasting for guidance and/or healing. Wouldn't it be nice to be part of that world.
The answer is a resounding "NO." According to the scriptures they do serve gods. There gods are made of stone or wood. Maybe today there gods are made of paper and precious metals in the form of money. Maybe there gods are beamed into their houses through the internet, television or radio. In the end their gods won't last. they fall from grace, or seem less fulfilling over time. The problem is that I still sometimes become part of that world.
God is merciful and will forgive, if we truly seek after God with all our heart and soul. He will remember the promises he made. He will restore you to grace and forgiveness. God will not abandon you. No matter where you go or how far you walk away, God is always ready to catch you and bring you home.

Prayer:
Lord thank you for being a gracious and loving father that will not destroy, abandon or forget us. Lord you have blessed us so much in our world, I ask that you continue to open my eyes to the glory around me. Help me grow closer to you and deeper in your knowledge. Help us fight the temptation to walk away or seek other gods. Help us seek you with all our heart and soul.

Daniel Fast

So today Amy an I started this Fast, to coincide with what our church is doing in preparation for Easter. I will keep you posted on how it is going. Its going to be tough, but I believe it will be healthy for both my body and my spirit. I got the following information from the Ed Young website.


TIMELINE

Day 1: 24-hour Liquid Fast
Drink water, natural fruit juice and herbal caffeine-free tea

Day 2: Begin the "Daniel Fast"
Introduce meals with pure foods of fruits and vegetables. This plan will continue for the next 20 days.

Day 22: Break the Fast

MENU

The Daniel Fast is a partial fast, which means that you will eliminate some common things from your daily diet, but will have generous options available. Focus on eating fruits and vegetables that are pure and simple. We have included a list of foods to eat and foods to avoid.

Foods to Eat

WHOLE GRAINS: Brown Rice, Oats, Barley

LEGUMES: Dried Beans, Pinto Beans, Split Peas, Lentils, Black Eyed Peas

FRUITS: Apples, Apricots, Bananas, Blackberries, Blueberries, Boysenberries, Cantaloupe, Cherries, Cranberries, Figs, Grapefruit, Grapes, Guava, Honeydew Melon, Kiwi, Lemons, Limes, Mangoes, Nectarines, Papayas, Peaches, Pears, Pineapples, Plums, Prunes, Raisins, Raspberries, Strawberries, Tangelos, Tangerines, Watermelon

VEGETABLES: Artichokes, Asparagus, Beets, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Chili Peppers, Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Garlic, Ginger Root, Kale, Leeks, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Mustard Greens, Okra, Onions, Parsley, Potatoes, Radishes, Rutabagas, Scallions, Spinach, Sprouts, Squashes, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Turnips, Watercress, Yams, Zucchini

Seeds, Nuts, Sprouts

LIQUIDS: Water (as much as possible), Unsweetened Soy Milk, Herbal (caffeine free) Tea, Natural Fruit Juice (no added sugar)

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (small quantities), Honey

Foods to Avoid

Meat, Poultry, Fish
White Rice
Fried Foods
Caffeine, Coffee, Tea (including decaf)
Carbonated Beverages
Foods Containing Preservatives or Additives
Refined Sugar or Sugar Substitutes
White Flour
Margarine, Shortening, High Fat Products
All Breads
Dairy (milk, butter, cheese, yogurt, etc.)

* Important reminder: Be sure to drink as much water as possible throughout the fast. A great goal is to drink a gallon of water a day!

Get off the Waa-mbulance

Scripture: Numbers 14 Key Verse: 14:17-23
"'Lord, let your power be as great as when you said, 'The Lord...patient, forever loving...He forgives wrongdoing and disobedience...He never lets the guilty go unpunished, punishing children..for their parents' sins to the third and forth generation....' By your great love, please forgive these people's sins, as you have forgiving them from the time they left Egypt until now.' The Lord said, 'I forgive them, as you have asked. But as I live and as the glory of the LORD fills the whole earth, I solemnly swear that none of people who saw my glory and the miraculous signs I did in Egypt and in the desert will see the land which I promised their ancestors. They have tested me now ten times and refused to obey me. None of those who treat me with contempt will see it!'"

Objective:
God has had enough out of these complainers in chapter 14. He tells Moses that because these people have not only complain but haven't trusted God even though they have seen the miracles he has performed, and the prayers that he answered for them he was going to destroy them all. Moses reminds God of his forgiveness, and God forgives those that do not hold God in contempt. It seems though that everyone over 20 years old held God in contempt in their heart. They would not be allowed to see the promised land. The promise was handed over to the next generation.

Application:
How often have I feared something, or thought that it was the end of the world. I would have been better off dying in the desert than go through this. Its easy to say that the israelites were kinda dumb for questioning God and complaining about God's process. The problem is we do it too. Maybe not in such a way that it is as obvious as the Israelites, but in smaller ways we do it everyday. Every time we worry about something instead of listening to the promises of God we complain a bit. Hopefully we don't hold contempt for the Lord in our hearts. We can be forgiven for everything else, but if we hold contempt in our hearts we are basically saying we don't want forgiveness.
The Eagles have a song called, "Get Over It." "Spend all the time feelin' sorry for themselves. Victim of this, Victim of that. your momma's too thin; your daddy's too fat." This song looks at our culture of victimization and says what God says How long must we deal with the complaining.

Prayer:
Lord pitying myself needs to stop, I know that all things work for the glory of God. I ask that you help me and others to take solace and peace in your promises. The bad things that happen in the world are not by your design, but can still be used for the good of Your Kingdom. Help us get off the Waaa-mbulance.

No More Lone Rangers

Scripture: Numbers 11 Key Verse: 11:15-17
"If this is how you're going to treat me me, why don;t you just kill me? I can't face this trouble anymore. The LORD answered Moses, "Bring me 70 Israelite men who you know are leaders and officers of the people. Take them to the tent of meeting, and have them stand with you. I'll come down and speak with you there. I'll take some of the Spirit that is n you and put it on them. They will help you take care of the people. You won't have to take care of the people alone."

Objective:
In Chapter 11 we see the Israelites and companions complaining once again. They complain so much God sends fire, that ends up killing a few on the outskirts. Then we see Moses complain to God about the people complaining and not being able to handle it all on his own. God says that he needs so leaders to help him out. Once this is done, God sends meat to the land since this is what they were complaining about. Then some greedily ran out and start to feast on it. Something happened to make God angry again and He caused a plague on the land. Maybe they complain again, it would fit there character.

Application:
"It is not good for man to be alone." Those words are found in Genesis when talking about Adam and Eve. Again though we see God telling Moses to surround himself with people in the form of leaders. How often do we try to be Lone Rangers saving the day and riding off into the sunset. Partly a pride thing, partly a knowledge thing; I tend to try to get the job done myself. It is easier and faster, right? God created us for community, not to be Lone Rangers. He created us to work together and surround ourselves with people who share in the vision of the Lord. We each are created to be unique individuals playing on the field at the same time.

Prayer:
God, thanks for making me who I am. I ask that you provide me with people that can come along side me in ministry and in life. Help me not be a Lone Ranger. Help your team come together and get the job done.

The Good, The Bad, and The Forgiven

Scripture: Leviticus 26 Key Verse: 26:3, 14,40-42
"This is what I will do if you will live by my laws and carefully obey my commands:...If you will not listen to me and obey all these commands,...But if thy confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors-the treacherous things they did to oppose me--I will oppose them and bring them into the lands of their enemies. Then, if they humble their uncircumcised hearts and accept their guilt, I will remember my promise to Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham. I will also remember the land."

Objective:
This chapter is all about the consequences of action. God says there are good consequences and bad consequences. We achieve the good by following His commands, and receive the bad by choosing to go against Him. God spends 10 verses talking about the good consequences and 26 verses talking about the bad. The chapter ends with hope for those that have received the bad consequences, all they need to do is accept their guilt in order to be restored into the promises of God.

Application:
As I was reading this It became obvious to me that God understands that we tend to be more motivated by understanding what negative things are going to happen to us. It doesn't mean we can stay away from receiving those consequences, but the motivation is there. Even more interesting is that despite the way God has been very harsh with the people, at the end of this chapter you see a glimpse of the God that we truly come to know in the New Testament, a God of Forgiveness and Second Chances. This God offers hope when it would seem the darkest. When the people are captives of another land and have been all but destroyed, God says then you may be ready to be humble and accept the guilt. "[If you do this] I will remember the promise to their ancestors"

Prayer:
Lord, I must be ready to accept the consequences of my actions. However you have paid the price for me. You took the consequences for all of us. We need to live into that promise and remember what you have done for us. There are still good and bad consequences today, and just as it was before it is a choice to take the good or the bad. I believe and accept the gift that was given to me when Jesus died upon the cross for my sins. I thank the Lord that there is a way for me to be "Forgiven" and brought back into communion with God.

Pinch Hitting

Scripture: Exodus 32 Key Verse: 32:21-24
"Moses asked Aaron, 'What did these people do to you that you encouraged them to commit such a serious sin?' 'Don't be angry, sir,' Aaron answered. 'You know that these people are evil. They said to me, 'We don't know what's happened to this Moses who brought us out of Egypt. Make gods for us. They will lead us.' So I told them to take off any gold they were wearing. They gave it to me. I threw it into the fire, an out came this calf!"

Objective:
I read the Old Testament trying to keep my mind out of my cultural stuff. The Old Testament has some great wisdom, beautiful poetry, and very challenging topics. This is one of those chapters. It is a chapter that make me go, "Huh?" We read how Aaron let's the crowd get to him, and makes a false god. We see a worship time turn into an orgy, and we see God, through Moses kill 3000 men.

Application:
There is so much going on in this chapter and its hard to get my head around what I need to pull from it. The one thing that keeps popping out at me is How Aaron reacted. Aaron, the brother of Moses, was called by God to be the voice for Moses. Alone Aaron was empty of the knowledge God had given to Moses. As I think about this I see a truth for my own life. I often try to "fill-in" and pinch hit for others. God has gifted me in a special way to do special things, the problems rise when I do things that go against my grain. We need to do what it is we are made to do, and stop trying to be well-balanced switch hitters.
Aaron like so many celebrities had/have a powerful voice. They are look at and mimicked by young and old. Some of them have what it takes to lead others in the right direction, others just lead people down the wrong path. We need to work as a team to best lead this world in the direction God wants it to go.

Prayer:
Lord, Thanks for making me who I am. Help me be content doing the things you have gifted me to do. Help me use my strengths in way that will grow the Kingdom like never before. Help all of us no when to say when, and not go beyond our limits.
Lord surround us with the people we need to best get the job done.

I Do!

Scripture: Exodus 20 Key Verse: 20:18-19

"All the people heard the thunder and saw the lightning. They heard the blast of the ram's horn and saw the mountain covered with smoke. So they shook with fear and stood at a distance. Then they said to Moses, "You speak to us,and we'll listen. But don't let God speak to us, or we'll die!"

Objective:

This chapter is the Ten Commandments. These are the basic rules to live by. According to some scholars many of the Jewish hearers would have heard this as as Ketubah, or wedding vows. This is because of the set up that is told before the commands were given sets up the scene as a Jewish wedding. The groom being God and the bride being the Jewish people.

Application:

It's funny how we want to act as if God wasn't around or at least wasn't around when we did/do bad things. It's as if we only want God to be around when we need him, kinda like our personal Genie. Rub the lamp and *poof* out comes God to answer our wish. For other spiritual matters we want to talk to the middle men. We ask for forgiveness by talking to a pastor or seek guidance by listening to a Sermon. We sound a lot like the Israelites in verse 19, "Don't let God speak to us..."
The problem is that God wants a relationship with us, not just to be our Genie. Its no surprise to me that this is a marriage ceremony, because its all about the relationship between us and God. I think it is time for us to do what Aladdin did with his last wish, and set the Genie free. We need to set God free in our lives. We need to stop holding back from this relationship, and live fully in it.

Prayer:

Lord, I do. I take you as my groom. I yearn for this relationship. I need the two-way conversation. I promise to listen as we as speak. Speak to me directly, I don't want to go through the middlemen anymore.

Keep the Faith

Scripture: Exodus 14 Key Verse: 14:10-14

"As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up an saw that the Egyptians were coming after them. Terrified, the Israelites cried out to the LORD. They said to Moses, 'Did you bring us out into the desert to die because there were no graves in Egypt? Look what you've done b y bringing us out of Egypt! Didn't we tell you in Egypt, 'Leave us alone! Let us go on serving the Egyptians?' It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than die in the desert!' Moses answered the people, 'Don't be afraid! Stand still, and see what the LORD will do to save you today. You will never see the Egyptians again. The LORD is fighting for you! So be still!'"

Objective:

This chapter could be called, "The Great Escape." This is the final showdown between the Egyptians and the Israelites. The Israelites seem trapped against the Red Sea with nowhere to run, and the Egyptians closing in on them. Then the Lord has Moses raise his staff, and the sea parts making a path to the other side. The Israelites go across and make it to the other side. The Egyptians follow them and Moses commands the sea to flow back to normal engulfing the Egyptian army.

Application:

The first time I went to Universal Studios, Hollywood I was five or six years old. I don't remember much about the trip, except for the backlot tram tour. We got to see the house from psycho, get attacked by a shark, but most amazingly we went through a lake that parted in the middle. The special effects that parted the lake so the tram could drive through were simply amazing to my five-year-old self. how much more amazing would it have been to have seen it done for my survival from the Egyptians. Surely a God that has brought plagues upon my captors, and a pillar of smoke and fire to guide me would continue to protect me and deliver on his promise of a land of milk and honey. It should be pretty easy to put our trust in Him and keep going.
The Israelites had trouble with the whole faith thing. It seems whenever there was the slightest hint of trouble they forgot all that had happened to them before and started to freak out. They started asking why the LORD had done this to them, surely they were better off before this. Then when the LORD provided they remember His power and worship Him.
Its easy to look at the Israelites and say, "can't you see the things God is doing for you?" But at the same time how many times do we question the work of God in our lives. I know that when I begin to lose faith, the reason is usually there is some kind of trouble in my life or the world. Maybe we need to listen to Moses when he says, 'Don't be afraid! Stand still, and see what the LORD will do to save you today."


Prayer:

Heavenly Father, many times you have pulled me out of the fire, and helped me. You have made me the person I am today, by using the good things and the bad things in my life. Please help me stand back and watch you move. I know that I get into the most trouble when I think I can do things on my own. Lord from the good to the bad, help me keep the faith.

Pharaoh, Pharaoh

Scripture: Exodus 10-11 Key Verse: 11:10

"Moses and Aaron showed Pharaoh all these amazing things. Yet, the LORD made Pharaoh stubborn, so he wouldn't let the Israelites leave his country."

Objective:

Beginning in chapter 7 and going through chapter 12, we learn of all God did through Moses and Aaron to free the Israelites. The multiple plagues each getting worse, were done to break the spirit of Pharaoh, who was a prideful man. In chapters 10 and 11 we see the plague of Locusts, Darkness and Pharaoh is told about the Death of The Firstborns. After these events the bible says that God made Pharaoh stubborn so he refused to give in.

Application:

Pharaoh was a stubborn man from the beginning, while the plagues were going on his advisors asked him, how long are you going to keep this going on? Its hard for me to grasp this concept of God hardening the heart of Pharaoh, or making him stubborn, because it seems to fly in the face of free will. I decided to look it up in a commentary for some guidance. Here is a quote from St. Augustine, "God does not harden men by infusing malice into them, but by not imparting mercy to them." In other words if I continuously refuse to receive the mercy and let my heart be softened, then God will stop offering it. According to the commentary, It is but just and right that (God) should withhold those graces which He had repeatedly offered, and which the sinner had despised and rejected.
God has boundaries; He is not codependent. If you want to be stubborn he will let you. There is a choice to be made, do you let God work on your life and help you soften, or do you stay the way you are and by default lose out on all that God has to offer.

Prayer:

Lord, don't give up on me. I know at times I refuse to be softened or grow, but Lord continue to offer your grace and mercy upon me. Help each of us grow, so that we can be come the people you want us to be.

What's GTD?

Scripture: Exodus 3 Key Verse: 3:11

"But Moses said to God, 'Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the people of Israel out of Egypt?"

Objective:

The story of the calling of Moses to bring the people out of Egypt. We see the Lord speak to Moses through a burning Bush. The Lord tells Moses what to do, and Moses, being Moses, has a ton of questions of clarification.

Application:

Have you ever had a moment where you ask yourself, "Why me?" Maybe it is because you were asked to do something that seems huge, or something bad is happening to you. I can completely understand how Moses reacted here, because it is pretty much the same way I reacted when I felt the Lord call me to ministry. Who Am I to do that? Interestingly God says you are not, I Am. You see God doesn't ask us to move a mountain by 5 o'clock, then leaves only to return at 4:59 to make sure it was done. Even when we don;t realize God standing next to us, it's not because he isn't there. More likely the reason we don't see him, is we are looking in the wrong direction. If you trust and walk with God, then he will prepare a way for you to get things done.
Sometimes the opposite is true. We are asked to do things that are too small for us or at least we think. We ask "why me, I can move so much more than this pebble." Maybe it's because the Lord knows that we are trying to do it on our own. The truth is God is in the small things too.

Prayer:

May we be a people that hears the call of action and rises to the occasion; not on our own power but on your power Lord. May we always remember that you are with us in the big things and the small things. Use me Lord to move a mountain or a pebble. Focus me on getting the things done that you want me to get done.

The Forgiven

Scripture: Genesis 45 Key Verse: 45:4-5

"'Please come closer to me' Joseph said to his brothers. When they did so, he said, 'I am Joseph, the brother you sold into slavery in Egypt!' Now, don't be sad or angry with yourselves that you sold me. God sent me ahead of you to save lives."

Objective:

After a few chapters of build up chapter 45 has the big reveal. This reveal is not what I think we would expect in this situation. Joseph forgives his brothers, and more than that realizes it was God's doing that brought him here. Both Pharaoh and Joseph tell the brothers to go get there families and return to Egypt. They do as told and as promised they receive a great plot of land.

Application:

Why is forgiveness so hard? Why is that we would rather hold grudges, hurt those that hurt us, and talk about people behind there backs? I believe we can learn a bit from Joseph, because he didn't want to forgive them (Gen. 42:7) at first but knew he had to in the end. I think the first reason we don't forgive people is pride. Our pride is on the line when someone hurts us. A far out example of this is how some people are treating the whole Britney Spears fiasco. I was talking to someone the other day who was almost angry about how Britney is acting. As I thought about it this young lady had spent countless hours listening to Britney's music and in general being a big fan. Now all that time seems to have been wasted. This is where the anger stemmed from. I asked the young lady to forgive Britney and pray that she can turn her life around. When we are hurt by someone's actions, our pride gets taken down a bit. The second reason it is hard to forgive is we lose sight that we ourselves need to be forgiven constantly. I think the actions Joseph takes in the previous two chapters, makes him realize that he needs God's forgiveness just as much as the brother's needed his.

Prayer:

Lord, you gave your life on the cross so that we could be forgiven. You have made away for us to be reunited with our Father and our family. I ask that you help us see the people in our lives that we need to forgive and gives the heart to forgive them. Help us put our pride aside and show them the forgiveness you showed us.